Premier Doug Ford is defending his government’s list of essential businesses that can still operate during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ford says he understands that not everyone understands why some businesses are considered essential but notes they did consult industry prior to releasing it.
“That list can be adjusted, stores can be taken off or added, similar to what Quebec is doing. It’s going to be an open list,” Ford said.
The Premier says the reason why they deemed the Beer Store, cannabis stores and the LCBO as essential was due to concerns from mental health agencies with clients dealing with addiction.
“We heard that it is absolutely critical to keep that open. Mental health agencies don’t want to put any additional pressure on the health care system. I know some people at home are sitting back and thinking well how does that work and there are people out there with addictions,” Ford added.
